This relatively easy hike explores the southern side of the High Island Reservoir in Sai Kung Country Park.
Starting from the Country Park entrance at Pak Tam Chung, we make a brief stop at the Sheung Yiu Folk Museum – a typical late 19th century Hakka Village. This small museum allows us a glimpse into how people used to live in Hong Kong’s New Territories.
Just beyond the museum, we start the harder part of today’s walk as we join a well-maintained dirt path following the contours of Port Shelter’s northern banks. Though partially shaded, the path offers great views over the many islands off Sai Kung.
The dirt track ends at the western dam of the impressive High Island Reservoir. From here we walk on the restricted access road skirting the reservoir until we reach the turn-off for the scenic Pak Lap Wan. With a bit of luck, we should be able to refresh ourselves with a dip in the sea there. Much would depend on the tide, though… There is also a small store on the beach for another type of refreshments.
From Pak Lap, it is just another 30 minutes of walking to our destination at Sha Kiu Tau. However, we will check out the old school and the impressive Tin Hau temple, before reaching the seafood restaurant that marks the end of our hike.
After lunch, and to finish the outing in a truly relaxing way, we return to Sai Kung by boat.